Our History

The mission of the National Audubon Society's North Carolina State Office is to help conserve and restore the North Carolina habitats we share with all wildlife, focusing on the needs of birds.

White Ibis

Photo: Walker Golder

The mission of the National Audubon Society's North Carolina State Office is to help conserve and restore the North Carolina habitats we share with all wildlife, focusing on the needs of birds. Audubon North Carolina achieves its mission through a blend of science-based research and conservation, education and outreach, and advocacy.

The National Audubon Society has its roots in North Carolina and its history has always been linked to a passionate concern for birds, other wildlife and their habitats. It was this concern that led to the organization of the nation's first Audubon Society in 1886. In 1902, T. Gilbert Pearson organized the Audubon Society of North Carolina, which launched wildlife conservation in the state.

The official Audubon North Carolina state office was incorporated in 1997. The state office is currently located in Chapel Hill and there are field offices in Wilmington, Corolla and Boone.

Today, the threats are far different from a century ago, but they are potentially greater in magnitude. Habitat loss and degradation because of human influences are the greatest threats to birds. Habitats for nesting, foraging, migration and wintering are essential, and the conservation of these areas is critical.

Audubon North Carolina's 25,000 supporters and nine chapters comprise a growing force of grassroots activists involved in conservation at every level. Audubon North Carolina education and outreach programs combat "nature deficit disorder" by making natural connections for thousands of people every year.